The right side delivers the spectacular Azores departure — Faial's caldera and Pico's volcano are genuinely world-class aerial views. The landing views on the left are good but London approaches are relatively routine compared to volcanic Atlantic islands. Right side wins overall for the memorable Azores scenery at takeoff.
Flown HOR to LHR? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Horta to London is 1,629 miles (2,622 km), a flight of about 3 hours 45 minutes.
The flight tracks northeast across open North Atlantic, passing well south of the Iberian Peninsula. The Bay of Biscay may be visible in the distance depending on exact routing. As you approach the UK, the southwest coast of England — Cornwall and Devon — appears below before the aircraft tracks over southern England toward Heathrow. No significant overland features until the English coast.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from HOR
RIGHTDeparting Horta's runway 30 (northwest), the right side gives you a clear view back over Faial's caldera and the island's volcanic interior as you climb out over the Atlantic. You'll also catch Pico Island's dramatic stratovolcano across the channel to the south.
Landing at LHR
LEFTHeathrow typically lands on easterly runways (09L/09R) in prevailing westerly winds, with the approach over west London from the west. The left side on final approach gives you the best view of central London — the Thames, the City skyline, and Canary Wharf are visible to the north-left of the approach path.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Horta (HOR) to Heathrow (LHR)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Horta to London. The right side delivers the spectacular Azores departure — Faial's caldera and Pico's volcano are genuinely world-class aerial views. The landing views on the left are good but London approaches are relatively routine compared to volcanic Atlantic islands. Right side wins overall for the memorable Azores scenery at takeoff.
What can I see during takeoff from Horta in Horta?
During takeoff from Horta (HOR), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing Horta's runway 30 (northwest), the right side gives you a clear view back over Faial's caldera and the island's volcanic interior as you climb out over the Atlantic. You'll also catch Pico Island's dramatic stratovolcano across the channel to the south. Notable sights include: Faial's Caldeira (central caldera), Pico Mountain (2,351m stratovolcano on Pico Island), the Faial-Pico Channel, Horta harbor and marina.
What can I see when landing at Heathrow in London?
When landing at Heathrow (LHR), sit on the Left side for the best views. Heathrow typically lands on easterly runways (09L/09R) in prevailing westerly winds, with the approach over west London from the west. The left side on final approach gives you the best view of central London — the Thames, the City skyline, and Canary Wharf are visible to the north-left of the approach path. Notable sights include: River Thames snaking through west and central London, Windsor Castle and Windsor Great Park, Wembley Stadium arch, the City of London and Canary Wharf skyline on the horizon.
How long is the flight from Horta to London?
The flight from Horta (HOR) to Heathrow (LHR) takes about 3 hours 45 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 1,629 miles (2,622 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Horta to London flight path pass over?
The flight tracks northeast across open North Atlantic, passing well south of the Iberian Peninsula. The Bay of Biscay may be visible in the distance depending on exact routing. As you approach the UK, the southwest coast of England — Cornwall and Devon — appears below before the aircraft tracks over southern England toward Heathrow. No significant overland features until the English coast.